Liquidambar styraciflua, commonly known as Sweetgum, is a deciduous tree notable for its striking autumn foliage and unique, star-shaped leaves.

It typically reaches a height of 20 to 30 metres, with a pyramidal to conical form.

The leaves, measuring 10 to 17 centimetres in length, change from a glossy green in the summer to vibrant shades of yellow, orange, red, and purple in the autumn.

Its small, inconspicuous flowers bloom in spring, followed by distinctive, spiky fruit capsules that persist through winter.

The bark is deeply furrowed, an interesting texture.

Preferring moist, well-drained soils, this tree thrives in sunlit areas.

In the British Isles, the Sweetgum is not native but has been widely planted for ornamental purposes in parks and large gardens.

It is usually found in the warmer, southern regions of England and Ireland where the climate is more conducive to its growth.